? Outlook: The Arrows will count on speed and hitting this season, but they need to shore up the defense and break in new corner infielders and outfielders. Ashland is thinking conference championship and a regional berth.

? Outlook: The Bulldogs must replace All-Ohioan Chelsea Makeever and three other productive starters, but they will overcome it with a healthy Natalie Sayre in the pitching circle, last year's News Journal Pitcher of the Year.

? Outlook: The Falcons must replace multi-time All-Ohioan Jenn Moore in the middle of their lineup and at shortstop. They have five freshmen on the roster, plus three others with little varsity experience.

? Outlook: Niswander takes over after a long stint at Lucas where he won the school's first NCC title a year ago. The Rams will count on pitching, speed and experience, but they must get better in the clutch and be more consistent.

? Outlook: Despite being hit heavily by graduation and featuring a new coach, the Indians have the same expectations after averaging 17 wins over the last six years and posting 12 straight winning seasons.

? Outlook: The Golden Knights have a wealth of experience back so depth won't be an issue, nor will speed and hitting. They need to focus better and play to their potential as they try to build a tradition.

? Outlook: The Warriors are struggling with numbers and won't have a JV team for the first-year head coach and former Crestline standout. Still, they have a nice mix of veterans and talented freshmen, so Ontario looks to improve on last year's eight wins.